Ellie Taylor has sent a message to Strictly Come Dancing fans after addressing comments about changes to its spin-off show live on air. The presenter, who has taken over as host of It Takes Two, reassured viewers that professional dancers would still feature on the programme.
New era for It Takes Two
Strictly Come Dancing returned to screens in September with its pre-recorded launch show, introducing the 15 new celebrities taking part this year. The 2026 competition officially began on Saturday, September 26, with new hosts Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe, as all 15 celebrities and their professional partners performed for the judges for the first time.
It Takes Two, the show's sister programme, returned on Monday, September 28, with Ellie Taylor as its new host. The former Strictly contestant replaced Janette Manrara and Fleur East on the programme, which offers behind-the-scenes access to the training room between live shows.
Fans notice interview format change
As the 30-minute show aired with a new set, viewers noticed that celebrity contestants were no longer being interviewed alongside their professional partners. The change continued into the second episode on Wednesday, September 30.
During that episode, Taylor was joined by professional dancers Jowita Przystal, Julian Caillon and Lauren Oakley. Before their chat, she told viewers: "Guys, don't worry! I've seen your comments. As if we couldn't have any Strictly pros..."
Taylor thanks followers
After the show, Taylor posted a selfie on Instagram as she headed home, writing: "Another live show. I'm enjoying it all so much- I feel incredibly lucky. Thanks for all your lovely messages. I've got a whole load of cheerleaders in my DMs and it really puts a little pep in my lanky step - thanks angels."
